Apple Hill farms offer weekend specials for Amador, Placer County residents

Families looking for weekend adventure need look no further than Apple Hill, where more than a dozen farms and wineries are rolling out the red carpet for their "neighbors across the canyon." The Apple Hill Growers Association is hosting a special appreciation weekend Saturday and Sunday for residents of Amador and Placer counties, offering exclusive discounts and perks at participating locations throughout the scenic foothills destination. "It's our way of saying thank you to the communities that make this region so special," said a spokesperson for the growers association. Visitors need only show proof of county residency to unlock deals ranging from half-price treats to complimentary wine tastings. The timing couldn't be better for families seeking autumn activities. Apple harvest season is in full swing, flower fields are blooming with late-summer color, and the weather promises perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. Children will find plenty to keep them engaged, from nature scavenger hunts with prizes to hands-on flower picking experiences. Parents can sample award-winning local wines while kids enjoy discounted ice cream and fresh-baked apple cider donuts. Weekend highlights include: 24 Carrot Farm #15: Stop in for Organic U-pick Flowers! Create your own beautiful arrangement from a variety of sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, snapdragons and more. Our organic farm stand offers a wide variety of organic seasonal produce and fresh baked goods for a perfect picnic lunch. Apple Pantry #37: Make your own bouquets. Half of kids' ice cream.Apple Ridge Farms #20: Pick your own vibrant bouquet at our new Zinnia U-pick, and let the kids enjoy a nature scavenger hunt with a prize waiting at the end. Before you go, take home a free packet of zinnia seeds to keep the flower fun growing—while supplies last! Delfino Farms #5: Free ice cream scoop with the purchase of a slice of pie Docmanov Vineyards #50: End of vintage case sale 50% off. Seasonal Bellinis. Extended hours 11-7pm. Live music.Harris Family Farm #84: Get a free half dozen mini apple cider donuts with $20 purchase Lava Cap Winery #26: Come sip wine on our lavender-filled patio overlooking the vineyard—open daily from 10am to 5pm. Enjoy a complimentary tasting with any bottle purchase. Visit www.lavacap.com for more information.O'Halloran's Apple Trail Ranch #18: Half off a box or bag of applesPine O-Mine Ranch #41: 10% off U-pick apples experience (while supplies last)Rainbow Orchards #10: baker's dozen when locals buy a dozen.Smokey Ridge Ranch #133: 10% off U-pick flowers Starfield Vineyards #57: Starfield Vineyards & Winery will be offering complimentary flights to guests with an Amador or Placer County ID plus one guest The Apple Hill region, located along Highway 50 between Placerville and South Lake Tahoe, draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually during apple season. The area features more than 50 ranches, farms and wineries spread across rolling hills dotted with oak trees and vineyards. For complete information and maps, visit applehill.com or follow @applehillofficial on Facebook and Instagram.